The idea of bringing an exact replica of the Assumpta chapel, a work by Antoni Gaudí, to Reus has sparked a debate among residents of the Mare Molas neighborhood. While some celebrate the possibility of incorporating a work by the Reus-born architect into the city and reinforcing his legacy, others express concern about the neighborhood's impact and question the project's cost, estimated between 10 and 11 million euros.
This initiative could make Reus the first city to host a faithful replica of a Sagrada Familia work outside the Barcelona site. Most of the residents consulted view the idea of having a piece of Gaudí's essence in his hometown favorably.
The director of the Maria Rosa Molas School, Ana Edo, emphasizes the project's religious and educational value, recalling that Gaudí was baptized in the Prioral de Sant Pere. According to Edo, the proximity to the Misericordia sanctuary could enrich the spiritual narrative and bring prestige to the neighborhood, as well as facilitate educational work centered on the genius's figure.
The president of the Mare Molas Neighbors Association, Agustí Dosaigües, has expressed the neighborhood board's satisfaction with the proposed location. He highlights that the incorporation of a modernist element would be a novelty for the neighborhood, which currently lacks one, and a tourist attraction that could decentralize visits from the city center.
Neighbor Flori Fernández agrees that the location in Gandhi Park is "very suitable," believing the work would integrate "easily" with the natural environment. Vanessa Esteve, another resident, sees it positively that Reus might have a Gaudí work but is skeptical about the project's execution speed.
However, other residents express significant doubts. Despite the proposal for public-private funding, citizens like Elena question the project's high cost (around 10 million euros) and suggest that resources could be allocated to more "profitable" needs. She also voices reservations about the impact of tourism on the neighborhood.
Resident Josep warns about the potential impact on Gandhi Park, considered the neighborhood's "lung," and fears that the construction could "destroy" this green area. He agrees with Elena regarding concerns about the possible disruption of neighborhood tranquility and the lack of direct benefits for residents from tourism.
Despite the diversity of opinions, most residents agree with Esteve's reflection: "Gaudí is from Reus and much of his work is concentrated in Barcelona; it would be good to have a bit of his essence here, in Reus."
